HOT BILLS

Independent Dental Hygienists

Bottom line: Dental hygienists want their independence from dentists and are sponsoring legislation that would allow them to open their own teeth-cleaning businesses.

Chances: The California Dental Assn. is a major player at the Capitol and is expected to launch a substantial lobbying effort to prevent any erosion of dentists’ business.

Next step: Tuesday hearing, Assembly Health Committee

Details: AB 560 author Don Perata (D-Alameda) can be reached at (916) 445-7442.

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Health Benefits for Domestic Partners

Bottom line: Gay-rights activists are backing legislation requiring health plans that extend benefits to employees’ spouses offer those same benefits to domestic partners.

Chances: The bill is a prime candidate for a veto by Gov. Pete Wilson if it clears the Legislature.

Next step: May hearing, Assembly Appropriations Committee

Details: AB 1059 author Carole Migden (D-San Francisco) can be reached at (916) 445-8077.

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Health Coverage for Mental Illness

Bottom line: Part of an effort to have health insurance cover the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness the same way it covers other diseases.

Chances: The bill was approved by the Assembly Insurance Committee but faces intense opposition from HMOs.

Next step: May hearing, Assembly Appropriations Committee

Details: AB 1100 authors Helen Thomson (D-Davis) and Don Perata (D-Alameda) can be reached at (916) 445-8368 and (916) 445-7442, respectively.

Please send Capitol Matters suggestions and comments via e-mail to cyndia.zwahlen@latimes.com.